Luigi Francis Shorty Rossi, the tough-talking, fedora-wearing star of Animal Planet's hit show Pit Boss, may stand only four feet tall but that hasn't stopped him from living large, becoming a successful businessman and an outspoken advocate for pit bulls, the most misunderstood breed of dog in the world.

A third generation dwarf, ex-gang member, and ex-con, Shorty knows what it's like to be misunderstood and in this candid memoir, he shares his personal story for the first time. No one expected Shorty to live let alone succeed, and yet he has, overcoming every challenge, from an abusive home to the violent streets and gangs of South Central LA, to the notorious cell blocks of Folsom Prison where he was imprisoned for attempted murder.

After 10 years, 10 months, and 10 days behind bars, Shorty gained his freedom and the chance to put his entrepreneurial and negotiation skills to the test. He cut the ribbon on his own business, Shortywood, with three goals: to turn his life around, act as a talent agent for little people and establish and fund charities that advocate for, rescue and place abandoned or abused pit bulls into safe homes. In the process, he became a reality-TV star. Now, with Hercules, his rescued pit bull and newly trained service dog by his side, Shorty continues to save pits from the basements and backyards of breeders and abusers while taking on new and even bigger challenges. And nothing is gonna stand in his way.

This book was great. Shorty wrote it just like he talks and all my questions about him were answered. Once I opened it and started reading I couldn't put it down. I'm now even more of a fan that I was to begin with.

While reading Shorty's book I could hear his voice and personality like he was reading it to me. I love getting to know the real person behind the show that is unmissable for me. What a character and exceptional human he is, a true example of overcoming bad situations and making your life the best it can be! This is the first book I have read in years that I was intrigued and couldn't wait to read the entire story.

I watch Pit Boss every week. I can picture Shorty going through everything and the situations he faced while reading this book. I feel I know him as a good friend. (I wish I can meet him.) He might be little, but he has a HUGE heart when it comes to the animals, definately Pit Bulls... This book goes so fast. I will most likely read it again and again and again. Thank You Shortly for sharing your life story with me. Two Thumbs Up!!!!

I found this book to be informative. Shorty tells it as it is, no sugar coating. He has led a very interesting life and his devotion to the pit bulls is quite touching. I feel all dogs need a chance and so often it is the owners that make a dog bad. I enjoy the TV series and so this was just frosting on the cake for me. I applaud Shorty and his staff for their work with pits.